Objective of the Game
Tolpatsch und Xanthippe is an entertaining card game where players participate in a whimsical home renovation task-gone-wrong. The objective is to roleplay as the perfect or clumsy craftsman to gather as many points as possible.
Game Components
- A deck of 60 craftsman cards and 30 event cards
- 12 role markers (6 each for “Tolpatsch” and “Xanthippe”)
- A score sheet and pens for tracking points
Setup
- Shuffle the 60 craftsman cards and 30 event cards into separate decks.
- Each player draws five craftsman cards and two event cards in secret.
- Place the remaining event cards and craftsman cards as separate draw piles.
- Each player receives a "Tolpatsch" and a "Xanthippe" role marker.
- Choose a starting player by any agreeable measure.
Game Play
The game is played in rounds, with each round composed of these phases:
1. Role Selection
- At the start of the round, each player secretly chooses a role (either "Tolpatsch" or "Xanthippe") and places the appropriate role marker face down in front of them.
2. Card Phase
- The starting player draws an event card and reads it out loud. The card describes a task for all players or a benefit/penalty for the reader.
- Players use their craftsman cards to respond to the task on the event card.
3. Construction Phase
- Players place their craftsman cards face down on the table and reveal them simultaneously.
- Each card has a value from 1 to 10. The total value of all cards determines the success of the construction phase.
- Xanthippe receives a bonus for success, while Tolpatsch incurs penalties for failure.
4. Resolution
- Role markers are flipped. Xanthippes gain points per the event card and their craftsman card values, while Tolpatsches may subtract penalties.
Winning the Game
- The game ends after a predetermined number of rounds (e.g., 8 rounds).
- Players tally their scores; the player with the most points wins.
Strategic Tips
- Role Choice: Decide wisely when to play each role to maximize points or minimize losses.
- Craftsman Card Management: Manage your craftsman cards to save your best ones for pivotal phases.
- Event Interpretation: Some event cards offer hidden possibilities, so keep an eye open for strategic opportunities.
